Searching for a new role can feel overwhelming, particularly if you are returning to the workforce, changing industries or looking for work after many years with the same organisation. With technology, artificial intelligence and employer expectations continuing to reshape recruitment, informed career decisions are more important than ever.
A good recruiter does much more than arrange interviews. They help employers assess capability, motivation, cultural alignment and long-term suitability. They can also provide valuable market insights, honest feedback and guidance throughout the recruitment process.
Your conversations with a recruiter therefore matter. Before meeting with one, research the opportunity, understand your career priorities and be prepared to discuss your experience clearly. Here are some statements best avoided.
“I’ll take anything.”
While you may be keen to secure your next role quickly, saying you will take anything can suggest that you have not considered what you want or whether the opportunity is genuinely right for you.
Employers want candidates who are interested in their organisation and motivated by the role itself. A better approach is to explain that you are open to different opportunities while remaining clear about your strengths, preferred responsibilities and career direction.
Try saying:
“I’m open to considering a range of opportunities where I can use my experience in the field and contribute to a collaborative team.”
“I don’t really know much about the role or organisation.”
Recruiters do not expect you to know everything at the first conversation, but they do expect a reasonable level of preparation. Failing to review the position description, website or available information can suggest a lack of genuine interest.
Do your research and arrive with thoughtful questions about the role, leadership team, organisational culture, priorities and measures of success.
“Whatever the salary is will be fine.”
Salary conversations are now a normal and important part of recruitment. Be honest about your expectations but ensure they are realistic and supported by your experience, the responsibilities of the role, its location and current market conditions.
It is equally unhelpful to accept any salary without consideration or to nominate an amount well above the market without justification. A recruiter can help you understand the available package and advise whether your expectations are achievable.
Try saying:
“Based on the scope of the role and my experience, I am seeking a package in the vicinity of $X, although I am open to discussing the overall opportunity and benefits.”
“I’m only interested if I can work from home.”
Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are important to many candidates, but they are only one part of the employment relationship. Ask about flexibility professionally and avoid presenting demands before you understand the operational requirements of the position.
Try saying:
“Could you tell me more about the organisation’s working arrangements and whether there is flexibility once the person is established in the role?”
“My previous employer was terrible.”
Even if you had a difficult experience, speaking negatively about a former employer, manager or colleague can create concerns about professionalism and how you manage conflict.
Focus instead on what you learned, how you responded and what you are seeking in your next workplace. You can be honest without becoming personal or overly critical.
Try saying:
“The environment was no longer aligned with my values and career direction, so I am now looking for an organisation where communication and collaboration are strongly supported.”
“My résumé was written by AI, so I’m not sure what it says.”
Artificial intelligence can be useful when preparing an application, but your résumé and cover letter must still accurately reflect your experience. You should be able to discuss every responsibility, achievement and skill included in your application.
Generic or exaggerated AI-generated content is usually easy to identify. Use technology to improve presentation, but ensure the final application sounds like you and is factually correct.
“I know the interview is today, but can we reschedule?”
Emergencies happen, and a good recruiter will understand when circumstances are genuinely beyond your control. However, cancelling at the last minute without a reasonable explanation can affect your credibility and may inconvenience several people.
If you need to change an interview, communicate as early as possible. If you are running late or experiencing technical problems before an online meeting, contact the recruiter immediately rather than leaving them wondering.
“I’m definitely interested!” when you are not
It is perfectly acceptable to decide that a role is not right for you. What damages relationships is avoiding calls, failing to attend interviews or withdrawing without explanation after repeatedly confirming your interest.
Be open about any concerns involving salary, location, flexibility, responsibilities or relocation. A recruiter may be able to clarify the issue, negotiate with the employer or help you withdraw professionally.
A strong recruiter relationship can support your career
Be honest, prepared and respectful throughout the process. Keep your recruiter informed, respond within reasonable timeframes and ask for guidance when you need it.
Even if one particular opportunity does not proceed, the impression you leave may influence whether the recruiter considers you for another position in the future.
Recruitment is a relationship-driven industry, and professional communication will always be remembered.
Developing a good relationship with your recruiter will only benefit you in the end. Keep in touch with them, ask their advice when applying for roles and respect their time.
Eva Grabner
Managing Director
Elite Executive Pty Ltd
www.eliteexecutive.com.au
Cairns | Brisbane | Darwin | Townsville
Eva has amassed over 18 years of experience in the executive and professional recruitment industry and is the sole proprietor of Elite Executive, a thriving executive recruitment firm based in Queensland. As a highly professional and driven Managing Director and Principal Recruiter, she brings a wealth of recruitment expertise across a diverse range of industries. Her background also includes executive leadership and senior management roles on a global scale, showcasing her robust operational acumen.
